Judaism Quote by Daniel Partner
““The Pharisees were in charge of the Jewish religion. But the Romans ruled the land. Some Pharisees and Romans wanted to trick Jesus. “Teacher, we know you teach God’s way. Tell us, should we pay taxes to the Roman emperor?” “Why are you testing me?” asked Jesus. “You’re phonies. Show me a coin that you’d use to pay taxes.” They brought him a Roman coin. “Whose picture and title are on this coin?” Jesus asked. “The emperor’s picture,” they answered. “Right. So give the emperor what belongs to him. And give God what belongs to God.” They heard this and were amazed. All they could do was leave him alone. Later Jesus taught his disciples more about giving to God. They were sitting near a room called the treasury. Here people brought gifts of money for the temple. Many rich people brought lots of money. A poor widow came with two pennies. Jesus said, “I’ll tell you the truth. This widow has given more than all the others put together. They have plenty to give. She has nothing and has given everything she has.””
About This Quote
Source Bible: Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 22 (Jesus and the Tax Question)
Jesus teaches to distinguish civic duty from spiritual devotion, giving each its due.
In simple terms: Give to Rome what is Rome’s, to God what is God’s
Key Takeaway
Separate obligations to state and faith
Themes
faith
politics
ethics
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
theological
ethical
When to use this quote
- tax collection
- church donations
- personal conscience
Key Concepts
Divine authority
civil obedience
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “giving to God” mean today?
- How should believers handle conflicting loyalties?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations vary on the balance of secular and sacred duties
